B’nai B’rith International is outraged by a decision of the European Union Institute that undermines the chance for a negotiated peace process by imposing unilateral restrictions on Israel, while further isolating the Jewish state. New guidelines by the European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union (EU) would restrict funding, grants and overall cooperation by the EU with any Israeli institutions beyond the 1967 lines. “These guidelines clearly display the longstanding EU double standard and obsession with Israel to the point of outright discrimination,” B’nai B’rith International President Allan J. Jacobs said. “Syria’s civil war and Iran’s march toward nuclear weapons do not get the same attention as Israel.” The document’s bias is clearly evident as specific non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are singled out to comply with the guidelines. Additionally, Gaza is noted as an occupied territory, despite the fact that Israel withdrew all presence from Gaza in 2005—eight years ago.“This decision undercuts the recent efforts of U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry to restart negotiations. For years, the Palestinians have refused to sit down with Israel. This EU move can now only further set back that eventuality,” B’nai B’rith International Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin said. “The EU cannot be seen as an objective player in the peace process while issuing restrictions like these.” These E.U. guidelines are on par with the United Nations’ standard operating procedure regarding Israel. The EU and the United Nations seem ready and willing to do the Palestinians’ bidding, instead of urging the Palestinians to negotiate—without preconditions—directly with Israel; something Israel has long been ready to do. Following in the footsteps of the United Nations, these new EU guidelines set up obstacles by imposing pre-conditions and revealing international bias against Israel.